When completing a written assignment, drafting a final paper or posting to an online discussion forum, you want to ensure your writing reflects the ideas you are trying to convey. The key to effective writing is clear thinking; you must have clear thinking in order to deliver clear communication so readers understand your messaging.

Here is a must-have writing checklist that will help you express your thoughts in a coherent, cohesive, and engaging manner. Use this checklist to make necessary edits and revisions to your writing, enabling you to submit the best piece of writing possible.

Humanity has a love-hate relationship with technology. Our growing reliance on new and updated systems, networks and products presents both challenges and benefits to our global society. But undoubtedly, its impact is a pervasive reminder of what we can do.

Technology is integral to modern life. As tech professionals, we are responsible for designing, building and applying scientific principles to meet the technological demands of our society. Whether we work in the utilities or healthcare industry, aviation sector or IT field, keeping up to date with the latest developments and predicting future needs is a critical part of what we do.

Application-oriented knowledge and specialized training is inherent in the field. So I understand when technology professionals question the practicality of a master’s degree. This is a fair question from people who are trained to inquire, examine and solve complex problems.

Remember applying for scholarships that included stringent requirements based upon test scores, grades, introspective essays or some other academic achievements?

These requirements are much different.

There are countless offbeat and unusual scholarships out there that award serious cash to students with unique talents, hobbies or interests. Whether you are a passionate Star Trek fan, a walking encyclopedia of knowledge or you have a gift for designing greeting cards, you could qualify for more college funding than you think.

You do not need an English degree to know that writing plays an important role in any profession. From writing cover letters to composing emails, communicating with the written word is critical to your career.

Thankfully, writing is like a muscle - the more you work on it, the stronger it grows.

So how do you actively improve your writing skills? Try incorporating one of these five tips into your daily or weekly routine.

A Commander’s Call held at the 108th Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, located at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., in December 2013. Image via the U.S. Air National Guard by Master Sgt. Mark C. Olsen.

Veterans face many difficulties when transitioning to civilian life. As service members, it is tough to find the same challenges or pride in civilian positions like we had in our military lives and accomplishments. Sometimes, it is hard translate the things we do into civilian terms.

Essentially, we are starting all over again. But it is possible to create a civilian network of colleagues and friends whose knowledge we can draw upon.

Most major life choices should not be made lightly. Research and preparation will most likely factor heavily into your decision. After all, you wouldn’t buy a car without test driving the vehicle, or buy a house without taking a tour. So, naturally, shouldn’t you do the same for your education?

If you are thinking about going back to school, but unsure how online classes work, how do you know if they are even right for you? Why isn’t there a test run or “try before you buy” option?

It is no secret that the aviation industry is highly competitive. Earning an FAA certification requires years of theoretical application and practical experience, combined with a healthy dose of resolve and determination. But as the field constantly improves and evolves, it has become increasingly important for professionals to gain qualifications above and beyond other applicants.

Online courses are designed for engagement. They are built to encourage students to ask questions, originate dialogue and prompt learners to think about concepts beyond the traditional textbook. Although effective writing and time management skills are paramount, online learning also lends itself to the world of inquiry – enabling you to initiate and conduct your own learning experience.

Once you register to take an online course, you may feel both excited and anxious as you examine the course space and glance at the syllabus. From the outset, it appears the course will introduce many new concepts, offering a new perspective on some overarching themes. Although the content may seem compelling, what brings a class to life is how actively you engage with your mentor and classmates; essentially, you get out of an online course what you put into it – before, during and after.

Whether you are a credit by exam novice, or a seasoned testing veteran, you know it is never too early to prepare for a TECEP® exam.

Taking an exam for credit does not have to be complicated. That is why we have put together a TECEP® Exam Timeline to help make your testing process and preparation easier to navigate. Adapt and apply this plan to your own exam prep schedule. Check it out and be sure to review our explanations below the timeline for more in-depth details.

Are college graduates gaining the skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce?

Today, educators and leaders are debating the effectiveness of higher education. During the 1960s, a national shift in outlook emerged, challenging the ideals of a liberal arts education in comparison to more narrow and specialized career-ready programs.

However, studies have routinely shown that students who pursued a liberal arts education reported having the most fulfilling careers. And as more and more people increasingly change jobs, these “soft skills,” (i.e. communications, problem solving, critical thinking and adaptability) inherent in a liberal arts education, have become the most desired by employers.

As it turns out, a liberal arts degree may be the best career investment yet.